When a veteran passes away, honoring their service is more than tradition—it’s a right. But many families wonder what support is available, especially when choosing direct cremation, a simple and dignified alternative to traditional funerals.
Whether you’re planning or navigating loss in the moment, this guide walks you through what veterans’ benefits are available, how direct cremation fits in, and how to access what your loved one earned through their service.
Are Veterans Eligible for Direct Cremation Benefits?
Yes, absolutely. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers benefits that apply whether the family chooses burial or cremation, including direct cremation services.
However, the benefits depend on factors like:
- Type and length of service
- Cause of death (service-connected or not)
- Whether the veteran was receiving VA benefits
- Location of cremation or burial (VA cemetery vs. private)
Let’s break it down.
Available Benefits for Veterans Choosing Direct Cremation
1. Burial & Plot Allowance (Even for Cremated Remains)
Even if cremation is chosen, the VA provides a burial allowance to help cover funeral costs. As of 2024:
- $948 for a service-connected death
- Up to $231 for a non-service-connected death
- Up to $948 for a plot allowance (if not buried in a national cemetery)
2. Free Interment in a VA National Cemetery
Cremated remains can still be buried or inurned in any of the 155+ VA national cemeteries—completely free of charge.
This includes:
- Gravesite or columbarium niche
- Opening/closing of the grave
- Perpetual care
- Free government headstone or marker
- U.S. flag and Presidential Memorial Certificate
“Many families don’t realize cremated remains can receive the same full honors and burial treatment as traditional casketed remains.”
3. Military Funeral Honors
Every eligible veteran is entitled to military honors, regardless of whether they are cremated or buried. These honors typically include:
- Flag-folding ceremony
- Taps played live or via recording
- Two uniformed military personnel
You can request these honors through the funeral home or cremation provider, or directly through the Department of Defense’s Military Funeral Honors Program.
What Documents Are Needed?
To access these benefits, you’ll need:
- DD Form 214 (Discharge Papers) – to prove honorable service
- Death certificate
- Receipts or invoices for cremation costs (if seeking reimbursement)
If you don’t have the DD-214, you can request it via the National Archives or have your cremation provider assist.
What’s NOT Covered by the VA?
It’s important to know the VA does not automatically cover:
- The cost of the cremation itself
- Transportation to the crematory (unless the death occurred in a VA facility)
- Urns or cremation containers
- Memorial services
These out-of-pocket expenses are the family’s responsibility, but that’s where affordable direct cremation helps make things more manageable.
Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind
If you or your loved one is a veteran, it’s never too early to pre-plan. Doing so ensures:
- Eligibility is confirmed in advance
- The right paperwork is on file
- Your family won’t be left scrambling during a difficult time
At National Mortuary Shipping & Cremation, we work with families of veterans every day to ensure their loved ones’ wishes are honored with dignity and care. We also cater to out-of-state body transport for smooth cremation.
Final Thoughts
Direct cremation offers a respectful, cost-effective option for veterans and their families, without sacrificing the honors they deserve. From VA allowances to military ceremonies and national cemetery burials, cremation still provides many ways to celebrate and respect a life of service.
If you have questions or need help arranging a direct cremation for a veteran, our team at Natl Mortuary Shipping & Cremation is here to guide you through every step, with compassion, clarity, and respect.
